Hidden Heroes UK

Celebrating the #HiddenHeroes working in our prisons, IRCs, probation services and youth justice settings

Thank You #HiddenHeroes

Yvonne S

The forgotten service you are our heroes, please stay safe and well x

[via @UKPrisonService on FB]

From: Yvonne S, Bridgend

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Sean Haley, Sodexo

We have many colleagues in Sodexo delivering essential services – these are our hidden heroes. Our people who work in prisons and probation support local communities by providing critical services and keeping people safe. I am proud of all of them and applaud them for continued support #SodexoProud
From: Sean Haley, Sodexo

Ian Blakeman, Pentonville

There have been numerous times in the last few weeks when I’ve been overcome with emotion and pride at the commitment staff at Pentonville have been making. The courage and selflessness has been astounding at a time when I know many must have been scared both for themselves and loved ones. What has made this more remarkable is the resilience shown in the face of losing much loved colleagues. I am so proud of you and know that if we can do this we can do anything.
From: Ian Blakeman, Governor, HMP Pentonville

Lindholme

I’d just like to say thank you to all the healthcare workers and members of staff that are still coming into work even though it’s dangerous and to the National Health Service. Thank you.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Lindholme

Mary C

Stay safe ? wonderful job well done ? ????

[via @UKPrisonService on FB]

From: Mary C, Warrington

Helena Lawrie

The prison officers are doing an amazing job. They are putting their selves at risk every day, and of course their families [on Facebook]
From: Helena Lawrie, Bradford

Keith D

God Bless and Keep Safe ❤❤❤

[via @UKPrisonService on FB]

From: Keith D

Bullingdon

I just wanna say thank you to all the staff who could be at home with their families now but instead they choose to come in and make sure we get our exercise and facilities, you’re doing a great job so thank you.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Bullingdon

High Down 2

I just want to say something to HMP staff, Her Majesty’s High Down prison staff, they’re doing a brilliant job during this coronavirus. I just wanna say a massive thank you.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP High Down

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Garry Newnes, Governor HMP & YOI Hollesley Bay, Suffolk

My staff are outstanding at this difficult time, working extra hours including evenings and weekends to fit around childcare and managers living away from home to protect their families. The whole establishment is working together, I’ve never been prouder! No Governor can ask for more! #hiddenheroes
From: Garry Newnes, Governor HMP & YOI Hollesley Bay, Suffolk

Brinsford 2

Hello I’d just like to give a big shoutout to all the NHS staff outside and all the staff inside Brinsford at Care UK. I’d like to say thank you for all that you’re doing, you’re doing a great job thank you.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Brinsford

John Samuels

I should like to pay my personal tribute to the super-dedicated HOLS who have distributed course materials under cell doors to those undertaking distance learning, in many cases for courses supplied by PET. The news of that flickering flame of learning being kept alive has been a genuine tonic. It makes me proud to be associated with such devoted people.
From: John Samuels, President PET

Low Newton nurses

“To all the nurses, pharmacists, to you all,
You’s are amazing
Thank you for all your hard work
We appreciate all wot you’s are doing to protect us
You’s are our superheros”
From: C/D wings, Low Newton

Terry Waite video

“Working in a prison is not easy at the best of times but today the job is made even more difficult. Most people will never see the inside of a prison, but those who know the system recognise how difficult it can be. I would like you to know that your work – and of your colleagues in probation and youth justice – is appreciated.
You are not forgotten.”

From: Terry Waite CBE, Suffolk

The Mount

I’d ike to say thank you to all the NHS workers and all the prison staff. It is hard at times like this. My heart goes out to you all. If it wasn’t for you lot we wouldn’t survive. Thank you so much I appreciate it from the bottom of my heart.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP The Mount

Phil Copple

Whether as a prison officer, a prison governor or a senior official, I have always been proud of what we stand for and proud to be a member of our Service. I have never been more proud than I am at this moment. When people look back, I hope how we responded helps to improve our prestige, and the regard in which you are all held. I will be immensely proud that everyone saw my staff and managers to be the brave and dedicated public servants you are, who in a moment of national crisis knew where their duty lay, and fulfilled that duty magnificently. Well done, and thank you for everything that you are doing.
From: Phil Copple, DG HMPS

Foston Hall

A big shout out to all the people looking after people in the jails that are sick with covid 19. Thanks to the NHS too!
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Foston Hall

High Down

I’d just like to say basically I’m thankful for all the prison officers on houseblock 3. They’re always here to help, they always try to support. I’m just thankful for them at this time on this journey. Stay bless and thanks.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP High Down

Northumberland x2

I just wanna give a massive shoutout to all the NHS staff in Northumberland, they’re doing a brilliant job, risking their lives to save others, the same as others in the UK.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Northumberland

Wayne T

Stay safe guys u do an extraordinary job

[via @UKPrisonService on FB]

From: Wayne T

Tommy

‘Thank you everybody in the Prison Service – Stay Safe!!! From Tommy xo.’
From: Tommy (via @NIPrisons on Twitter)

Pentonville

I’d just like to say thanks to all the staff and all the medical staff for coming in and looking after us. They’re coming in, they’ve got their own families, they don’t have to do it but they do. Thank you.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Pentonville

MoJ

Thank you to all our #JusticeHeroes who are keeping our Justice System running during the #coronavirus pandemic ??

Our prisons are filled with rainbows to show appreciation for the incredible critical workers who’re keeping us safe.

From: MoJ (via Twitter)

 

Manchester

I just wanna say that the staff here are doing a great job, they’re fully supporting us, giving us extra TV channels, making sure we’re socially distancing, giving us extra food packs. They’re really deserve a shoutout. They’ve got families, they’re so compassionate to us. I just wanted to say a big thank you from all of the boys to the staff. Thank you very much.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Manchester

Cheryl Lamont CBE, CEO PBNI

I would like to pay tribute to probation staff working throughout Northern Ireland and within our neighbouring jurisdictions to deliver essential services. During these difficult times I have been immensely impressed by the resilience, dedication and professionalism they have shown. At this time more than ever, we must work together, share learning and innovation and continue to build safer communities for all. #Thank you to all the #hiddenheroes at this time.
From: Cheryl Lamont CBE, CEO PBNI

Valerie Fussell

Thank you for your hard work and commitment in especially difficult circumstances. It is noticed and very much appreciated.
From: Valerie, Loughborough

Elizabeth H

I am so proud of all the prison officers who have to play so many different roles in their day-to-day work life putting their lives on the line each and every day to keep us safe thank you for all that you do ,you are our true heroes ❤️??????

[via @UKPrisonService on FB]

From: Elizabeth H

Caroline – Shannon Trust

I just wanted to say a huge thank you to all of our hidden heroes in the prison service. You do an absolutely amazing job in all areas of the prison and show so much supportive and kindness to the people in your care. A special thanks to my colleagues in the South and Wales- I hope to see you soon.
From: Caroline, Regional Manager, Shannon Trust

Northumberland 2

I’d like to thank all the staff, chapliancy, Junction 42 and healthcare especially Mr X for bravely coming to work when he’s not long had a child of his own, showing amazing support. God bless the prison service, thanks.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Northumberland

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Gethin, Unlocking Potential

You have had to endure the toughest of times and I want you all to know that your commitment to your role and those in your care has not gone unnoticed.

I have been moved by the letters and responses from residents thanking you for all you do.

You are all hidden heroes ?‍♀️ ?‍♂️

From: Gethin, Unlocking Potential

#HiddenHeroes message of support from A Prisoner, HMP Bristol

I'd just like to thank all the staff in Bristol for all their help with me being out of hospital for a week and the hard job they're up against at the minute but they were their with full support. I'd like to thank them and the NHS and everybody else that's fighting through these hard times. Cheers
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Bristol

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Vie, Southampton

We don't often think of all of you doing this work, in normal times, let alone now, which is wrong of us; however, this demonstrates how good a job you are doing, how valuable a job you are all doing, and, for that, I am grateful. Thank you ?.
From: Vie, Southampton

Charles Shepherd

Congratulations on all your hard work at this most difficult of times. You are not forgotten and your endeavours are greatly appreciated by the public who well understand the risks you take on a daily basis exacerbated by COVID19. Thank you.
From: Charles S, Cheshire

Lord Woolf

On behalf of myself and everyone at the Butler Trust, I warmly congratulate everyone working in prisons who have been “the Hidden Heroes” of the Covid 19 crisis.

The Butler Trust exists to mark extraordinary things that happen within the criminal justice system and your work and contributions to the system in the present Covid 19 crisis certainly comes within this description. You are the Hidden Heroes of the crisis because of what you are doing, and each one of you deserves to be recognised as such.

From: Lord Woolf, Butler Trust Patron

Brinsford

Just like to have a massive shoutout to all the prison staff and all the NHS staff doing a great job.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Brinsford

Russ Trent

I would like to thank our fantastic staff and their leaders. Their work is usually hidden from the general public so doesn’t get the appreciation it deserves. I have been so impressed with their dedication, courage, flexibility and adaptability. I would also like to recognise the professional way our staff unions have supported their members and helped make the workplace as safe as possible for all concerned.
From: Russ Trent, Prison Group Director HMPPS

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Duncan Craig OBE, Survivors Manchester / HMP Buckley Hall

I want to say a personal thanks to my Prison Officer and Healthcare colleagues for supporting me to continue to deliver our mental health service; and thanks to the lads on the wing for the practical tasks and respect carried out enabling me to see their peers and get the support they deserve.
From: Duncan Craig OBE, Survivors Manchester / HMP Buckley Hall

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Peter Holloway, CEO of Prison Fellowship England and Wales

On behalf of the whole of Prison Fellowship, I would like to offer my thanks and gratitude to prison and probation staff across the country, including dedicated prison chaplains. We see you and we honour you. God bless you, your families, and all those you care for, and keep you safe.
From: Peter Holloway, CEO of Prison Fellowship England and Wales

Peter Dawson

The greatest respect goes to all the hidden heroes who work, volunteer and live in prison, and find a capacity for kindness in the hardest of places. When this is over, may you never have to endure such conditions again. Peter Dawson, Prison Reform Trust.
From: Peter Dawson, Prison Reform Trust

Low Newton x

Thank you to all the NHS workers, I appreciate all the work you’re doing. Thank you to all the staff at Low Newton that are coming in.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Low Newton

The Mount x

I’d like to say hello an keep up the good work to all the prison staff who are working diligently. Thank you for supporting us on the lockdown and seeing that we get our little bit of exercise, it is much appreciated that they’re coming in on a daily basis. Everybody else is getting mentioned in society and it is a hidden job that often goes without recognition.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP The Mount

Woodhill

Big thank you to the NHS for helping the public and helping the prisoners. And thank you to the HMP Woodhill staff. Thank you for helping us through this time. It’s going to get better. Heads up chest out. Keep on going. Spread the love.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Woodhill

Graham Beck

I feel privileged to work alongside some amazing people. Over the past few weeks I have seen many examples of the calm professionalism that gets us through the most difficult of times, and the reassurance of confident, courageous and patient people dealing with new and complex situations. No one could have foreseen the things that colleagues have been dealing with recently, but the resilience and innovation that is evident is inspirational.
From: Graham Beck, Governor HMP Wymott

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Sally Crowther, Co Durham

Thank you to all the prison staff working through out the UK who have been forgotten for to long. Your doing an amazing job at a very difficult times. And thank you to their families aswell who are there supporting them while they work such long hours. Yous are all heroes x?
From: Sally Crowther, Co Durham

A Prisoner, Doncaster

I’d like to say a big thank you to all the NHS staff out there right now doing an amazing job supporting us and the Care UK for doing such an amazing job inside the prison. I’d like to say thank you to all the prison staff and everyone else, all the workers, all the cleaners, kitchen staff, everyone is doing an amazing job.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Doncaster

Jeanette Whitford

I am so proud to know that colleagues in probation and prisons are – as always – doing a heroic job to protect us all, working constructively with offenders, and changing lives in the most difficult of circumstances. Thank you for all that you are doing – hidden heroes and heroines – but superheroes each one of you. Thank you for bringing your care and passion to your challenging work each day.
From: Jeanette Whitford, Trustee, Butler Trust

Styal

To all the hidden heroes looking after every inmate in all the prisons. Stay strong, we’ll get through this together. Thanks.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Styal

The Mount x2

I’d like to request you make a special dedication to all the staff working hard and diligently in HMP The Mount, especially the wellbeing wing.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, The Mount

A Prisoner, HMYOI Brinsford

A massive thank you to all the staff at HMP Brinsford, everyone is going through a tough time with this coronavirus. It’s a tough time for all of us but if we work together with the staff and then hopefully we can get back to normal. Thank you to NHS workers who are working 24/7, it’s brilliant what they’re doing. Thanks to all the prison officers as well. Thanks for doing an amazing job and supporting us. Thank you.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMYOI Brinsford

Hindley

I just want to leave a message for all the staff on D wing in Hindley. These people are definitely hidden heroes and cannot do enough for us. Also the governors and nurses you can’t forget them. They are my hidden heroes.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Hindley

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Julian Avery, President, High Sheriffs’ Association of England and Wales. Past Treasurer, The Butler Trust,

High Sheriffs see support for Prisons and Probation as a key part of our role and we know the difference you can and do make to those with whom you work, never more important than in these challenging times. We salute you. You are all Heroes, hidden or not. We send you our thanks and all best wishes
From: Julian Avery, President, High Sheriffs' Association.

Peter Timms

The people working on in our offender services at this time, reflect what is the very best in humanity. Seeking always to give hope, purpose and new meaning to the lives of those within their care. Some 68 years after I joined the Prison Service, l remain properly proud of the Hidden Heroes who through their devotion so enrich the moral fibre of our country that no prison wall can ever hide. I salute you!
From: Peter Timms MA OBE

Swaleside 2

I would like to give a shout out to all the heroes who are working through this difficult time.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Swaleside

Jan M

Thank you so much for your service and dedication xxx

[via @UKPrisonService on FB]

From: Jan M

Peter Clarke

Even during the darkest days of the Covid-19 crisis, it was reassuring to know that so many dedicated and brave colleagues were working, often unseen and unheard, in vital areas of our justice, prison and probation services. Your contribution in supporting and reassuring service users, their friends and families and the wider public should not be forgotten, and indeed should be celebrated. Thank you – one and all.
From: Peter Clarke, HM Chief Inspector of Prisons

Tim Allen

I am truly amazed and beyond proud of all our staff and partners working in our prisons at this difficult time. The compassion, determination and sheer hard work of staff is truly appreciated.
Working together we make a difference!
From: Tim Allen, Prison Group Director, HMPPS

Tina Lloyd

They really are amazing unsung heroes even under normal circumstances.
[on Facebook]
From: Tina Lloyd

Michael Harrison

A big, big thank you to all of you who are working in prisons, probation or youth justice. You are our hidden heroes and we applaud all you are doing with enormous gratitude.
From: Michael Harrison, Butler Trust Trustee

Tony Oliver

I continue to be amazed, but not surprised, by the level of commitment, energy, resilience and cross-team cooperation shown by staff across the board. These are desperately difficult times like I’ve never experienced in my long career, and we don’t have the ‘perfect’ solution. What we do have, is a shared determination to deliver a safe and secure environment, with care and compassion. All HMPPS staff and our partner agencies are genuinely #HiddenHeroes and I’m proud of each and every one of them.
From: Tony Oliver, Governor, HMP Hull

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Andy Gullick, RIFT Social Enterprise

To all of my former colleagues in the Prison Service, I have the utmost respect for you.

Whilst other public services rightfully receive plaudits, you all continue to work with the most challenging individuals during the most challenging of times with very little mention.

I am proud of you all. Thank you.

From: Andy Gullick, RIFT Social Enterprise

Diane Caddle

A huge heartfelt thank you to all staff working tirelessly across prison and probation services to ensure continued support for those in our care during these exceptionally challenging times. I applaud the brilliant work you are doing!
From: Diane Caddle, Executive Director, HMPPS

Leeds

I would just like to say a big thank you to all the prison staff for coming to work, especially durign this time even on A wing in Leeds. So we are getting out our cells and getting showers and aren’t banged up all day. So a massive thank you to them – prison staff members across the system.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Leeds

Emily Tofield

I want to say a huge thank you to our colleagues right across the prison estate, youth justice and probation services. Their crucial work – not just at this difficult time but day in and day out – keeps the public safe and turns lives around. Too often they are the #HiddenHeroes in our justice system and my team is determined to tell their stories.
From: Emily Tofield, DIrector of Comms, MoJ

A Prisoner, Garth

Big shoutout to all the staff here at Garth for their amazing work they’re doing both NHS and disciplinary. It’s a shame that this isn’t being voiced on the mainstream headlines, they’re doing just as good a job as mainstream workers. Then my second one is for the governor here who’s doing their best to keep everyone occupied, keep family ties and that. So yeah, massive shoutout to everyone here.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Garth

Chris Jennings

I have been truly amazed by the resilience, positive attitude and commitment shown by the staff in prisons, probation and HQ teams across HMPPS Wales. The support and compassion they have shown each other and the men in their care has been awe-inspiring and I am very proud to call them all colleagues. Quite simply, amazing. Diolch yn fawr iawn! Thank you very much!
From: Chris Jennings, Executive Director, HMPPS Wales

New Hall

I would like to thank all the heroes that work in all the prisons and I would also like to thank the NHS for doing a brilliant, fantastic job with this coronavirus that’s going round. I am proud of both parties and I would like to thank them for their support, thank you so very much.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMPNew Hall

Tony Pearson

I am very much aware of the stresses and strains that must be affecting so many people working in all parts of the correctional services. I gladly salute all those who go to work day in, day out to ensure services are maintained. I shall include an extra clap for you all when we stand on our doorstep on Thursday evening to thank everyone working to keep others safe.
From: Tony Pearson, Butler Trust Patron

Sylvia G

Thank you to all the wonderful nurses who have to deal with so much in prison ,also the officers

[via @UKPrisonService on FB]

From: Sylvia G, Manchester

Jerry Petherick

My thoughts are with everyone working in all our prisons and custodial settings. A tough and demanding job in the best of times; the current challenges make your work and response even more impressive. Your work goes on largely unseen but you deserve all of our admiration and thanks. Thanks too to your families and friends who will be giving you much needed care and support. Well done all!
From: Jerry Petherick

Margaret F

Well done to all Prison personnel it can’t be an easy job even at the best of times. Thank you for your loyalty and bravery. Best wishes to you all xx

[via @UKPrisonService on FB]

From: Margaret F

PJ McParlin

Within a complex and demanding custodial workplace and in the midst of an unprecedented crisis your care and compassion has ensured that prisoners and the public remain safe and secure. Hidden heroes have become visible heroes. Thank you on behalf of us all.
From: PJ McParlin, former Officer and POA Chair

Swaleside 1

I’d like to leave a message of thanks and respect for all those coming into prison and helping us in this difficult time and all those nurses and doctors in the NHS putting themselves at risk. We wouldn’t be able to survive in here without those prison officers so I owe them a massive debt and respect.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Swaleside

Andrew, Purley

Thank you so much to all the #HiddenHeroes in our prison and probation services, working through the current crisis – I know things are tough right now, but what you’re doing is truly appreciated. THANK YOU!
From: Andrew, Purley

Preston

I’d just like to give a big shoutout and say thank you to the staff for looking after us in the best way they can. They come in from outisde from their loved ones and they put everything into the job.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Preston

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Kerry, Leicester

I can't imagine how challenging it must be to work in prisons at any time. How lucky we are to have hardworking compassionate staff dedicated to motivating prisoners to make good choices and plan for better futures. Thank you for providing stability and hope in such uncertain times. You're amazing!
From: Kerry, Leicester

Wanno 1

I’ve gotta send a shoutout to all the people that work in the Pathways to Recovery, each and every single one of them, they do nothing but help people; and each and every single person that works for the NHS. The way this pandemic is rolling they’re just doing nothing but love.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Wandsworth

Heather Whitehead

I am hugely grateful and proud of colleagues across Prisons, Probation and YCS for all they are doing to protect the public and look after the most vulnerable members of our community – and of my team at Brinsford, who work tirelessly, selflessly and with humanity to deliver the best they can in such unprecedented times. Thank you so much; none of you are forgotten and your work continues to change lives, and I am sure save lives.
From: Heather Whitehead, Governor, HMPYOI Brinsford

Craig Lowe

Every day I see the staff working tirelessly to provide care, support and reassurance to our young people. They are truly #hiddenheroes. One minute a cleaner, the next a caterer, then a carer, a mediator, an entertainer and an educator… to name but a few… when times are challenging, we continue to deliver! Keep up the great work, and stay safe, I am extremely proud of you all.
From: Craig Lowe, Governor, HMYOI Wetherby

Wyn Jones

It’s at times like these, that we truly begin to understand the value of people. Particularly people that put themselves at risk for the greater good. If society ever doubted that working in prison is a vocation, then I’m sure that such thoughts have now been banished forever! Sadly we currently have several colleagues very poorly in hospitals, up and down the country, our prayers and thoughts are with them and their families.
#HiddenHeroes
From: Wyn Jones, Serco

Michelle Jarman-Howe

I am beyond proud of how staff in all of our prisons and in the community have responded to C19. Caring, determined and positive, continuing to make a difference to people’s lives even in these difficult times – HMPPS at its best.
From: Michelle Jarman-Howe, Exec. Director, Public Prisons South

Rebecca, Greenwich

I have no idea how you do your jobs – I know I couldn’t. But I am very glad you do. You really are #HiddenHeroes. Thank you!
From: Rebecca, Greenwich

Bronzefield

I’d like to leave a message for all the officers that have assisted us at this time, they come to work even though they know the risks and I respect them for that and I thank them.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Bronzefield

Sarah Coccia

I am so proud of all our staff who work very much out of sight from the general public, but day in and day out deliver a professional service that protects the public and cares for the people we hold in custody. We certainly have many hidden heroes and I am humbled every day by the actions, teamwork, bravery, kindness and dedication that I witness. Thank you for all that you do. #hiddenheroes
From: Sarah Coccia, London Prisons Group Director

Northumberland 4

I’d like to put a message of support for all the chapliancy team. They’re working really hard to bring people the books with all the services on and all the people who have different faiths. So a big bigup for the chaplicany team.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Northumberland

Phil Wheatley

Working both with prisoners and offenders in the community is always challenging in a way that is rarely understood by the wider public. The Coronavirus has created a whole new order of risk, particularly for staff working in prisons who cannot avoid some close contact with their prisoners and also with other prison staff. All the staff involved deserve greater public recognition and thanks for continuing to work in these difficult circumstances. Their determination to keep on working ensures the justice system continues to keep the public protected and that prisons are as safe as is possible.
From: Phil Wheatley, London

Haworth House

Big round of applause for all AP staff who are keeping the show on the road.
Grateful for all key workers during this pandemic.
From: Haworth House AP (via Twitter)

Shirley S

Your all doing an amazing job, great respect for you all. Stay safe everyone ❤xx

[via @UKPrisonService on FB]

From: Shirley S, Hull

Christopher Critchlow

Unlike you who work in prisons, most of hadn’t experienced a lockdown. Now we have. But today lockdown for you is not just at work but also at home and off duty. You are coping magnificently under such unusual stress and your uncomplaining performance of your duties is to be commended. May you all keep well.
From: Christopher Critchlow

Brinsford

A little message for the hidden heroes in the jail, yeah man well done to you. That’s it really.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Brinsford

Tim Gurrey

Staff across HMPPS have risen to the challenge, utilising all the skills at their disposal, at this difficult time. They may sometimes be forgotten, but they are keyworkers and #HiddenHeroes.
From: Tim Gurrey, Ambassador for Prison Officers

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Aidy J, HMP Full Sutton

Very proud of staff within HMPPS doing so much to keep so many safe during this crisis. The work that staff are doing on a day to day basis, despite the risk to themselves and their families, is remarkable and a true testament to their commitment and professionalism. They are truly #HiddenHeroes
From: Aidy J, HMP Full Sutton

Humber x

Thank you to the staff at HMP Humber, I appreciate everything they’re doing for us, I wanna thank the lads for their co-operation and basically thank the NHS, they’re doing a brilliant job, we couldn’t do this without them.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Humber

Elaine Bevan

It’s about time all these people were recognised for what they do everyday. Thank you for The Prison Service ????????
[on Facebook]
From: Elaine Bevan, Bridgend

Styal

Can you put a shoutout to all the nurses and officers, thank you for all your health and support for keeping us in routine. If they weren’t doing their work it would have been worse.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Styal

Louise Falshaw

The work that probation, youth and prison staff do in the public’s name and to its benefit often gets overlooked. It’s now more important than ever that we recognise these exceptional people in trying to keep us and others safe, especially during this difficult time. The messages on this website say it all. Let’s make sure they don’t get forgotten again.
From: Louise Falshaw, London

James Timpson

Thank you to all our prison and probation officers who are working so hard to help prisoners and their families at the moment. Their kindness and dedication is always appreciated, but never more so than now.
#hiddenheroes
From: James Timpson (via Twitter)

Claire Hubb

Huge shout out to our prison officers, governors, chaplains and all workers in the prison system working to keep residents and the public safe. Thank you to all key workers ??????. Keep safe.
#justiceheroes #HiddenHeroes
From: @Claire_Hubb (via Twitter)

Bullingdon x

Just to say thanks to the prison staff, they probably saved me from death, they’re one in a million, we’re thinking of them, hard time. Thanks.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Bullingdon

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Glen Garcia, london

As an ex officer I understand how difficult the job is at the best of times, so I can only say how proud I am of all my ex-colleagues working in this time of uncertainty. Prisons have always been the forgotten service and prison officers the forgotten heroes of the criminal justice system. Heroes.
From: Glen Garcia, london

Wealstun

I would just like to say a big thank you to all the staff at HMP Wealstun that are keeping us safe day in, day out, coming into work as keyworkers and making sure we get out of our cells for daily exercise and a shower.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Wealstun

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Alison Liebling, Prisons Research Centre, Cambridge

Many thoughts, warmest wishes, and thanks, to all of those on the front line who are coping with an unprecedented situation, full of risk. You are not forgotten. All of us who know prisons have some grasp of what you are dealing with. Like our NHS staff, you are saving and protecting lives. Heroic.
From: Alison Liebling, Prisons Research Centre, Cambridge

Brian Davies

As a retired PO my respect to all the staff working so valiantly behind the walls at this critical time. Stay safe and well.
[on Facebook]
From: Brian Davies, Market Weighton

Lorraine Johnstone

“Your job is so tough even in the best of times. I can only imagine what it’s like now. Thank you for all that you do.” [via LinkedIn]
From: Lorraine Johnstone, Strathclyde Uni

Northumberland 1

Thank you to all the staff and nurses working on houseblock 3, thank you for the support on bang up and giving us private cash £5 so we can keep in touch with families and thank you very much.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Northumberland

Durham x

Big shoutout to staff and a big shoutout to all the NHS workers
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Durham

Seb, Nottingham

Hats off to all the brave prison officers out there – thanks for helping keep us safe. Stay safe too!
From: Seb, Nottingham

Notts x

Shoutout to everyone in HMP Nottingham, all the healthcare team and the staff during this lockdown – shoulder to shoulder
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Nottingham

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Sarah, Surrey

I am so proud to work alongside some of the most resilient people ever!! I want to thank all the staff at HMP Coldingley for the all the laughs and commitment through these difficult times. No matter what we face, we do it together!! Thank you, you make work that bit easier #Ateam
From: Sarah, Surrey

Susan R

You are all stars and heroes. Thank you xx

[via @UKPrisonService on FB]

From: Susan R

New Futures Network

Thank you to all our #HiddenHeroes working in prison and probation services, and for everything you continue to do to support the people in your care, especially during such a unique, testing time.
From: @NewFutrsNet (via Twitter)

Highfield AP

Thank you to our #HiddenHeroes @Highfield_AP & all APs @hmpps staff this weekend & always! Protecting the public & Making a difference! I am always proud of you! #WereAllInThisTogether
From: @JennaFurnessNPS (via Twitter)

Shelley, Surrey

Well done and thank you to prison and probation staff for everything you’re doing at this difficult time. You are all stars! ⭐⭐
From: Shelley, Surrey

Brixton x

I wanna appreciate all the NHS workers that’s here. I wanna appreciate all the officers that’s working, all the staff that could be at home with their families. We know that they don’t have to be here, but they are. God bless them.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Brixton